Connection boxes for gas tungsten arc welding training systems

ABSTRACT

Connection boxes for gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) training systems are described. In some examples, a connection box of the GTAW training system coordinates delivery of welding-type power to a GTAW torch during training. In some examples, a remote control (e.g., foot pedal) may be activated at different levels to command different levels of welding-type power be delivered to the GTAW torch from a welding-type power supply. In some examples, the connection box may selectively enable or disable communication between the remote control and welding-type power supply during training. In some examples, this selective enablement/disablement may be based on whether the GTAW training system is in a live-arc mode or simulation mode.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to gas tungsten arc welding(GTAW) training systems and, more particularly, to connection boxes forGTAW training systems.

BACKGROUND

The welding industry has a shortage of experienced and skilledoperators. Additionally, even experienced welders have difficultymaintaining important welding techniques (e.g., torch work angles, torchtravel angles, contact tip-to-work distance, travel speed, aim, etc.)throughout welding processes. Weld training systems make it possible forboth experienced and inexperienced weld operators to practice producinghigh quality welds.

Limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approacheswill become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison ofsuch systems with the present disclosure as set forth in the remainderof the present application with reference to the drawings.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to connection boxes for GTAW trainingsystems, substantially as illustrated by and/or described in connectionwith at least one of the figures, and as set forth more completely inthe claims.

These and other advantages, aspects and novel features of the presentdisclosure, as well as details of an illustrated example thereof, willbe more fully understood from the following description, claims, anddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an example of a gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) trainingsystem, in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram further showing example components of the GTAWtraining system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of thisdisclosure.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example GTAW training program thatmay be used with the GTAW training system of FIG. 1 , in accordance withaspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows an example GTAW torch that may be used in the example GTAWtraining system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of thisdisclosure.

FIG. 5 a shows an example filler rod and filler rod attachment that maybe used in the example GTAW training system of FIG. 1 , in accordancewith aspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 b shows another example filler rod and filler rod attachment thatmay be used in the example GTAW training system of FIG. 1 , inaccordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 c shows another example filler rod and filler rod attachment thatmay be used in the example GTAW training system of FIG. 1 , inaccordance with aspects of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing example components of a connection boxof the GTAW training system of FIG. 1 in relation to other components ofthe GTAW training system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of thisdisclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example box control method thatmay be used with the connection box of FIG. 6 , in accordance withaspects of this disclosure.

The figures are not necessarily to scale. Where appropriate, the same orsimilar reference numerals are used in the figures to refer to similaror identical elements. For example, reference numerals utilizinglettering (e.g., sensor 104 a, sensor 104 b) refer to instances of thesame reference numeral that does not have the lettering (e.g., sensors104).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a connection box of agas tungsten arc weld (GTAW) training system, comprising a remotecontrol input device configured to receive a remote control signal froma remote control, a remote control output device configured to providethe remote control signal to a welding-type power supply, a switchconfigured to selectively couple the remote control input device to theremote control output device, and control circuitry configured toprovide a training signal representative of the remote control signal toa weld training controller, in a live arc mode, control the switch toselectively couple the remote control input device to the remote controloutput device to enable communication of the remote control signal tothe welding-type power supply, and in a simulation mode, control theswitch to selectively decouple the remote control input device from theremote control output device to prevent communication of the remotecontrol signal to the welding-type power supply.

In some examples, the remote control input device comprises an inputport or input communication circuitry, and the remote control outputdevice comprises an output port or output communication circuitry. Insome examples, the remote control comprises a foot pedal. In someexamples, the switch comprises a relay. In some examples, the connectionbox further comprises a power input port configured to receivewelding-type power from the welding-type power supply, and a poweroutput port configured to provide the welding-type power to a GTAWwelding torch, the power input port and power output port beingelectrically connected through a power line. In some examples, theconnection box further comprises a sensor in electrical communicationwith the control circuitry and power line, the sensor configured todetect a current or voltage at the power line. In some examples, thecontrol circuitry is further configured to provide a signalrepresentative of the current or voltage to the weld trainingcontroller.

In some examples, the connection box further comprises a torchconnection device configured for electrical connection to a GTAW weldingtorch, the control circuitry configured to provide one or more torchoutput signals to the GTAW welding torch via the torch connectiondevice. In some examples, the control circuitry is further configured toreceive one or more torch input signals from the GTAW welding torch viathe torch connection device, the one or more torch input signals beingrepresentative of a selection of the live arc mode or the simulationmode. In some examples, the connection box further comprises a trainingconnection device configured for electrical connection to the weldtraining controller, the control circuitry configured to provide thetraining output signal to the weld training controller via the trainingconnection device, wherein the control circuitry is further configuredto receive one or more training input signals from the weld trainingcontroller via the training connection device, the one or more traininginput signals being representative of the live arc mode or thesimulation mode.

Some examples of the present disclosure relate to a method for operatinga connection box of a GTAW training system, the method comprisingreceiving a remote control signal from a remote control of a GTAWwelding torch via a remote control input device of the connection box,providing a training signal representative of the remote control signalto a weld training controller via a training connection device of theconnection box, in a live arc mode, providing the remote control signalto the welding-type power supply, and in a simulation mode, preventingthe remote control signal from being provided to the welding-type powersupply.

In some examples, the method further comprises receiving a mode signalfrom the weld training controller via the training connection device,the mode signal being representative of a live arc mode or a simulationmode. In some examples, providing the remote control signal to thewelding-type power supply comprises controlling a switch of theconnection box to selectively couple the remote control input device toa remote control output device of the connection box, the remote controloutput device configured to couple to a welding-type power supply. Insome examples, preventing the remote control signal from being providedto the welding-type power supply comprises controlling a switch toselectively decouple the remote control input device from a remotecontrol output device of the connection box, the remote control outputdevice configured to couple to a welding-type power supply. In someexamples, the remote control comprises a foot pedal.

In some examples, the method further comprises receiving one or moretorch input signals from the GTAW welding torch via a torch connectiondevice of the connection box, and sending the one or more torch inputsignals to the weld training controller via the training connectiondevice, the one or more torch input signals being representative of aselection of the live arc mode or the simulation mode. In some examples,the method further comprises controlling, via the torch connectiondevice of the connection box, one or more torch output indicators of theGTAW welding torch. In some examples, the method further comprisescontrolling, via the torch connection device of the connection box, oneor more torch markers of the GTAW welding torch. In some examples, themethod further comprises measuring, via a sensor, a current or voltageat a power line of the connection box, the power line being inelectrical communication with a power port configured for electricalconnection to the welding-type power supply. In some examples, themethod further comprises sending one or more signals representative ofthe current or voltage to the training controller via the trainingconnection device.

Some examples of the present disclosure relate to gas tungsten arcwelding (GTAW) training systems. While existing weld training systemsexist for gas metal arc welding (GMAW) systems and shielded metal arcwelding (SMAW) systems, GTAW systems present their own particularchallenges when it comes to weld training. For example, maneuvering thewelding “torch” or “gun” in GMAW and/or SMAW systems also maneuvers thefiller material. Thus, changing the position and/or orientation of the“torch” or “gun” also changes the position and/or orientation of thefiller material. In GTAW systems the filler material is separate (and/orseparately maneuvered) from the torch or gun. Thus, changing theposition and/or orientation of the “torch” or “gun” does not change theposition and/or orientation of the filler material. Additionally thefiller material in GMAW and/or SMAW systems also acts as the electrode,while the filler material in GTAW systems is entirely separate from theelectrode. Further, in GMAW and/or SMAW systems, the electrical powerfor creation of the arc is typically either continuous (e.g., in thecase of SMAW) or activated via a trigger on the torch or gun itself(e.g., in the case of GMAW). In GTAW systems, the electrical power forcreating the arc may be activated (and/or incrementally controlled)using a remote control (e.g., a foot pedal) that is separate from boththe torch/gun and the filler material.

The present disclosure contemplates a weld training system specific togas tungsten arc welding. In some examples, the GTAW training system ofthe present disclosure comprises a GTAW torch and a filler rodattachment having one or more markers to facilitate position and/ororientation detection and/or tracking of the GTAW torch and filler rod.One or more sensors of the GTAW training system are configured tocapture data relating to the markers of the GTAW torch and/or filler rodattachment. A training controller of the GTAW training system may usethe markers and/or sensor data to track and/or determine positions,orientations, and/or movement of the GTAW torch and/or filler rod. Thepositions, orientations, and/or movement may be analyzed in conjunctionwith welding parameter data to provide training feedback.

In some examples, a connection box of the GTAW training systemcoordinates delivery of welding-type power to the GTAW torch duringtraining. In some examples, a remote control (e.g., foot pedal) may beactivated at different levels to command different levels ofwelding-type power from a welding-type power supply. In some examples,the connection box may selectively enable or disable communicationbetween the remote control and welding-type power supply duringtraining. In some examples, this selective enablement/disablement may bebased on whether the GTAW training system is in a live-arc mode orsimulation mode.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a GTAW training system 100. In some examples,some or all of the GTAW training system 100 may comprise a virtual,augmented, and/or mixed reality GTAW training system 100. As shown, theGTAW training system 100 comprises a welding stand 102, several sensors104, a welding-type power supply 108, a connection box 600, a remotecontrol 140, a GTAW torch 400, a filler rod 112, and a filler rodattachment 500.

FIG. 5A shows an example filler rod attachment 500 a of the GTAWtraining system 100. In the example of FIG. 5A, the filler rodattachment 500 a comprises a cuboid 502. As shown, the cuboid 508 hasseveral flat interconnecting faces. While shown as a cuboid 502 in theexample of FIG. 5A, in some examples, the filler rod attachment 500 amay be a differently shaped object having several flat interconnectedfaces. As shown, the cuboid 502 has an aperture 504 on one face. Asshown, the aperture 504 leads to a channel 506 extending partway throughthe cuboid 502, and terminating at or before an end 508 of the cuboid502. In some examples, the aperture 504 and/or channel 506 is sized tocomfortably and/or snugly receive a portion of the filler rod 112, so asto frictionally retain the filler rod attachment 500 a on the filler rod112.

In the example of FIG. 5A, the cuboid 502 includes several attachmentmarkers 513. As shown, the attachment markers 513 are passive markers,such as, for example, reflectors. In some examples, the attachmentmarkers 513 may instead be active markers, such as, for example, lightemitting diodes (LEDs). In the example of FIG. 5A two attachment markers513 are disposed on each face of the cuboid 502. In some examples, moreor less attachment markers 513 may be disposed on each face. In someexamples, a distance between two attachment markers 513 on each sameface of the cuboid 502 (e.g., 513 a and 513 b) may be unique as comparedto the distance between any two attachment markers 513 on adjacent facesof the cuboid 502 (e.g., 513 a and 513 c/513 d, or 513 b and 513 c/513d). In such a way, the GTAW training system 100 may be able to determinewhich attachment markers 513 are on a same face of the cuboid 502 bycomparing distances between attachment markers 513 to thereby determinewhich pairs (and/or sets) of attachment markers 513 define an axisparallel to an axis of the filler rod 112. Once a parallel axis isknown, the GTAW training system 100 can project the axis towards theGTAW torch 400 (and/or tip of the tungsten electrode 414) and/orworkpiece 110 to determine the orientation and/or angle at which thefiller rod 112 might be interacting with the arc, GTAW torch 400 (and/ortip of the tungsten electrode 414), and/or workpiece 110. Additionally,in some examples, the attachment markers 513 may be arranged in such away as to constitute a rigid body, which the GTAW training system 100may use to determine both relative position and orientation.

FIG. 5B shows another example filler rod attachment 500 b. In theexample of FIG. 5B, the filler rod attachment 500 comprises two spheres520 connected together via a hollow tube 522. As shown, the sphere 520 aincludes an opening 524. In some examples, the opening comprises anentrance to a bore in the sphere 520 a that is collinear with the hollowtube 522, such that the filler rod 112 may be inserted through theopening 524 (and/or the sphere 520 a) into the hollow tube 522. In someexamples, a channel extending through the hollow tube 522 may terminateat the sphere 520 b. In some examples, the channel may extend partwaythrough the sphere 520 b. In some examples, the aperture 524, boreextending through the sphere 520 a (and/or sphere 520 b), and/or hollowtube 522 may be sized to comfortably and/or snugly receive a portion ofthe filler rod 112, so as to frictionally retain the filler rodattachment 500 b on the filler rod 112. In some examples, each sphere520 may comprise an active or passive marker, so as to facilitatedetection (and/or axis projection) by the GTAW training system 100.

FIG. 5C shows another example filler rod attachment 500 c. In theexample of FIG. 5C, the filler rod attachment 500 comprises two spheres530 connected together via a solid rod 532, rather than a hollow tube.Instead, a hollow tube 534 is attached to the sphere 530 a via anextender rod 536 that extends from the sphere 530 a. In the example ofFIG. 5C, the extender rod 536 is collinear with the solid rod 532. Insome examples, the solid rod 532 may extend through the sphere 530 a,and the extender rod 536 may be part of the solid rod 532. As shown, thehollow tube 534 includes an opening 538 configured to receive the fillerrod 112. In some examples, the opening 538 and/or hollow tube 534 may besized to comfortably and/or snugly receive a portion of the filler rod112, so as to frictionally retain the filler rod attachment 500 c on thefiller rod 112. In some examples, each sphere 530 may be an active orpassive marker, so as to facilitate detection (and/or axis projection)by GTAW training system 100.

In the example of FIG. 1 , an operator 116 wearing a welding helmet 106with a faceplate 124 is shown manipulating the GTAW torch 400 and fillerrod 112 proximate the welding stand 102 and several workpieces 110. Asshown, the GTAW torch 400 is coupled to the connection box 600 via awelding cable. While one GTAW torch 400 is shown in FIG. 1 , in someexamples, the GTAW training system 100 may include multiple GTAW torches400. In the example of FIG. 1 , a sensing device 105 (e.g.,accelerometer) is further integrated with the GTAW torch 400 tofacilitate tracking of the position, orientation, and/or movement of theGTAW torch 400.

FIG. 4 shows an enlarged depiction of the example GTAW torch 400 of theexample GTAW training system 100 of FIG. 1 . In the example of FIG. 4 ,the GTAW torch 400 includes a head 402 attached to a handle 406 via aneck 404. In some examples, the neck 404 may be rigid. In some examples,the neck 404 may be flexible, to allow the head 402 to be reorientedand/or adjusted with respect to the handle 406. As shown, the torch head402 comprises a body 408 attached to a nozzle 410, and a back cap 412that extends from the rear of the body 408. In some examples, the body408 may be separable from the GTAW torch 400, so that the body 408 maybe detached from and/or attached to different torches.

In the example of FIG. 4 , a tungsten electrode 414 extends from thenozzle 410. Within the nozzle 410, the electrode 414 may be retained bya collet (not shown). In operation, the handle 406 may be connected to acable that routes welding-type power and/or gas to the GTAW torch 400.Within the GTAW torch 400, the welding-type power may be routed to thetungsten electrode 414 to form the arc. Gas may likewise be routed tothe torch nozzle 410 to be disbursed proximate the arc. In someexamples, the GTAW torch 400 may be configured as a mock torch,incapable of actual welding, and have no need for the tungsten electrode414.

In the example of FIG. 4 , the torch head 402 includes several torchmarkers 413 attached to the torch body 408. By attaching the torchmarkers 413 to the body 408 (and/or head 402), the torch markers 413 areensured to remain in a fixed spatial relationship with the tungstenelectrode 414, even if the position/orientation of the head 402 isreoriented and/or adjusted with respect to the handle 406, via the neck404. In some examples the GTAW training system 100 may use this fixedspatial relationship to predict, estimate, and/or approximate theposition and/or orientation of the tungsten electrode 414 based on thedetected position and/or orientation of the torch markers 413.

In some examples, the fixed arrangement of torch markers 413 formed onthe solid surface of the body 408 may define a rigid body. In someexamples, the rigid body defined by the torch markers 413 may allow theGTAW training system 100 to determine both position and orientation ofthe GTAW torch 400. While in the example of FIG. 4 , all the torchmarkers 413 are in one group, in some examples, the torch markers 413may be arranged in multiple groups, with each group having at leastthree torch markers 413 (so as to define a rigid body). In someexamples, multiple groups of torch markers 413 may facilitate consistentand/or robust tracking through a wide variety of angles andorientations. In some examples, the torch markers 413 may comprise or beretained within holes, cavities, receptacles, and/or other formations inthe body 408.

In some examples, one or more of the torch markers 413 may comprisepassive markers, such as, for example, reflectors, pattern markers,and/or other non-powered markers. In some examples, one or more of thetorch markers 413 may comprise active markers, such as, for example,light-emitting markers (e.g., infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs)). Insome examples, active markers on the GTAW torch 400 may work better forlive welding because less camera exposure is needed to capture an activemarker (as compared to a passive marker). The smaller exposure time maytranslate into less risk of interference from other light sources nearthe GTAW torch 400 (e.g., the welding arc, sparks, spatter, etc.). Insome examples where the torch markers 413 are active markers, the torchmarkers 413 may receive power through a cable attached to the handle 406(e.g., from connection box 600) and/or from a power source internal tothe GTAW torch 400 (e.g., a battery within the handle 406 or head 402).In some examples where the torch markers 413 are active markers,individual torch markers 413 (and/or individual groups of torch markers413) may be selectively activated and/or deactivated in response to oneor more control signals (e.g., from the connection box 600).

In the example of FIG. 4 , the GTAW torch 400 includes torch inputs 416,torch outputs 418, and a feedback mechanism 420. While two torch inputs416 and two torch outputs 418 are shown in the example of FIG. 4 , insome examples, the GTAW torch 400 may include more or less torch inputs416 and/or torch outputs 418. In some examples, the torch inputs 416 maycomprise buttons, switches, dial, knobs, microphones, and/or otherappropriate input mechanisms. In some examples, the torch outputs 418may comprise visual outputs (e.g., display screens, lights, etc.) and/oraudio outputs (e.g., speakers). In some examples, the feedback mechanism420 may comprise a haptic feedback mechanism and/or vibrating mechanism.

As shown, the GTAW torch 400 further includes internal torch circuitry422 in electrical communication with the torch inputs 416 and/or torchoutputs 418. In some examples, the internal torch circuitry 422 may beconfigured to drive, control, and/or otherwise facilitate operation ofthe torch inputs 416, torch outputs 418, torch markers 413, and/orfeedback mechanism 420. In some examples, the GTAW torch 400 may includean internal power source to power the torch inputs 416, torch outputs418, feedback mechanism 420, torch markers 413, and/or torch circuitry422. In some examples, the GTAW torch 400 may receive power through acable connection (e.g., with the connection box 600) to power the torchinputs 416, torch outputs 418, feedback mechanism 420, torch markers413, and/or torch circuitry 422.

In some examples, an operator 116 may use the torch inputs 416, torchoutputs 418, and/or feedback mechanism 420 to provide input to, andreceive outputs and/or feedback from, the GTAW training system 100. Forexample, during setup/calibration of the GTAW training system 100, theoperator 116 may use one or more of the torch inputs 416 to select alive arc mode or a simulation mode. In such an example, the GTAW torch400 may send one or more signals indicative of such a selection to theconnection box 600 and/or training controller 200. As another example,the connection box 600 and/or training controller 200 may send one ormore signals to the GTAW torch 400 indicative of the mode (e.g., livearc or simulation), and one or more of the torch outputs 418 may providean appropriate indication of the mode to the operator 116. As anotherexample, the connection box 600 (and/or torch circuitry 422) may controlthe feedback mechanism 420 to provide feedback (e.g., vibration) inresponse to some training result (e.g., good score, poor score, travelspeed too fast/slow, arc length too large/small, angle too large/small,successful mode selection, etc.).

In the example of FIG. 1 , a remote control 140 is also coupled to theconnection box 600 via a cable. As shown, the remote control 140 is amovable foot pedal. In some examples, the remote control 140 may be aswitch, trigger, button, lever, dial, and/or other appropriate controlmechanism (e.g., mounted to the GTAW torch 400). In some examples, theremote control 140 is configured to detect activation (e.g., depression)and/or movement of the movable pedal, and output one or more controlsignals based on (and/or indicative of) the activation level and/ormovement. In some examples, the remote control 140 may communicate theone or more control signals to the connection box and/or welding-typepower supply 108. In some examples, an operator 116 may depress and/ormove the movable pedal to different degrees to command different targetlevels of welding-type power for delivery to the GTAW torch 400, and thewelding-type power supply 108 may interpret and/or respond accordinglyto representative signals from the remote control 140. In some examples,the remote control 140 may comprise wireless communication circuitryenabling wireless communication of the remote control signals (e.g., tothe connection box and/or welding-type power supply 108). In someexamples, a wireless receiver configured for communication with wirelesscommunication circuitry may instead be coupled to the connection box 600via the cable, rather than the remote control 140 itself.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the GTAW torch 400 and remote control 140 areselectively coupled to the welding-type power supply 108 through theconnection box 600. As shown, the welding-type power supply 108 is alsoselectively coupled to a clamp 114 through the connection box 600. Insome examples, the welding-type power supply 108 may be directly coupledto the clamp 114 via the cable. While only one cable is shown connectingthe connection box 600 to the welding-type power supply 108 for the sakeof simplicity, in some examples, multiple cables may form theconnection.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the clamp 114 is attached to a supportplatform 120 of the welding stand 102 and the welding-type power supply108. In some examples, the clamp 114 may be attached to a workpiece 110,some other portion of the welding stand 102, or some other piece ofequipment, instead of the support platform 120. While shown as connectedto the power supply 108 in the example of FIG. 1 , in some examples, theclamp 114 may instead be connected to the connection box 600. Duringlive welding, the support platform 120, workpiece(s) 110, clamp 114,GTAW torch 400, and/or cables connecting the clamp 114 and/or GTAW torch400 to the welding-type power supply 108 may form a closed circuitthrough which welding-type output power may be routed.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding-type power supply 108 includes(and/or is coupled to) a gas supply 142. In some examples, the gassupply 142 supplies a shielding gas and/or shielding gas mixtures to theGTAW torch 400. A shielding gas, as used herein, may refer to any gas(e.g., CO2, argon) or mixture of gases that may be provided to the arcand/or weld pool in order to provide a particular local atmosphere(e.g., shield the arc, improve arc stability, limit the formation ofmetal oxides, improve wetting of the metal surfaces, alter the chemistryof the weld deposit, and so forth).

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding-type power supply 108 alsoincludes an operator interface 144. In the example of FIG. 1 , theoperator interface 144 comprises one or more adjustable inputs (e.g.,knobs, buttons, switches, keys, etc.) and/or outputs (e.g., displayscreens, lights, speakers, etc.) on the welding-type power supply 108.In some examples, the operator 116 may use the operator interface 144 toenter and/or select one or more weld parameters (e.g., voltage, current,gas type, wire feed speed, workpiece material type, filler type, etc.)and/or weld operations for the welding-type power supply 108. In someexamples, the operator interface 144 may further include one or morereceptacles configured for connection to (and/or reception of) one ormore external memory devices (e.g., floppy disks, compact discs, digitalvideo disc, flash drive, etc.). In some examples, the operator 116 mayadditionally, or alternatively, use one or more input devices 130 of thewelding stand 102, and/or one or more torch inputs 416 of the GTAW torch400, instead of the operator interface 144.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding-type power supply 108 includespower conversion circuitry 132 configured to receive input power (e.g.,from mains power, a generator, etc.) and convert the input power towelding-type output power. As shown, the welding-type power supply 108further includes control circuitry 134 electrically coupled to and/orconfigured to control the power conversion circuitry 132. In someexamples, the control circuitry 134 may include processing circuitry(and/or one or more processors) as well as analog and/or digital memory.In some examples, the control circuitry 134 is configured to control thepower conversion circuitry 132, so as to ensure the power conversioncircuitry 132 generates the appropriate welding-type output power forcarrying out the target welding-type operation.

In some examples, the control circuitry 134 is also electrically coupledto and/or configured to control the gas supply 142. In some examples,the welding-type power supply 108 may control the gas supply 142 tooutput a target type and/or amount gas. For example, the controlcircuitry 134 may control a valve in communication with the gas supply142 to regulate the gas delivered to the GTAW torch 400.

During a live arc mode of the GTAW training system, a live weldingoperation (and/or welding process and/or welding session) may beinitiated when the operator 116 activates the remote control 140. Insuch an example, one or more control signals indicative of theactivation may be sent from the remote control 140, through theconnection box 600, to the welding-type power supply 108. Controlcircuitry 134 of the welding-type power supply 108 may interpret thecontrol signals and control the power conversion circuitry 132 to outputwelding-type power based (at least in part) on the control signals. Thewelding-type power provided by the welding-type power supply 108 may beapplied to the electrode 414 of the GTAW torch 400 in order to produce awelding arc between the electrode 414 and the one or more workpieces110. The heat of the arc may melt portions of the filler rod 112 and/orworkpiece 110, thereby creating a molten weld pool. Movement of the GTAWtorch 400 and/or filler rod 112 (e.g., by the operator) may move thewelding arc and/or weld pool creating one or more welds 111. When thewelding operation is finished, the operator 116 may deactivate theremote control 140.

During a simulation mode of the GTAW training system 100, a simulatedwelding operation (and/or welding process and/or welding session) may beinitiated when the operator 116 activates the remote control 140 and/orsome other input of the GTAW training system 100 (e.g., input devices130 and/or torch inputs 416). In such an example, one or more controlsignals indicative of the activation may be sent from the remote control140 to the control box 600, which may forward the control signals to thetraining stand 102 (while preventing the control signals from reachingthe welding-type power supply 108, as further discussed below). Thetraining stand 102 may then simulate the welding-type power, weldingarc, molten weld pool, and/or other aspects of the welding operation.When the welding operation is finished, the operator 116 may deactivatethe remote control 140.

In some examples, the connection box 600 and/or welding-type powersupply 108 may detect certain welding parameter data pertaining to thewelding-type power supply 108, clamp 117, and/or GTAW torch 400 during awelding process. In some examples, this welding parameter data may becommunicated to the welding stand 102, which may use the weldingparameter data for training analysis and/or feedback. In some examples,this communication to the welding stand 102 may occur in real time,periodically during a welding operation, and/or after a weldingoperation has finished.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding stand 102 includes a supportplatform 120 to provide support for one or more workpieces 110 and/orvarious training devices. In some examples, the support platform 120 mayinclude slots and/or apertures to aid in positioning and/or orientingthe workpiece(s) 110. In some examples, the workpiece(s) 110 may includean extension configured to extend into one or more of the slots and/orapertures for alignment of the workpiece 110 with the one or more slotsand/or apertures. In some examples, the position and/or orientation ofthe workpiece(s) 110, slots, and/or apertures may be used to calibratethe GTAW training system 100. For example, a calibration deviceconfigured to be sensed by the one or more sensors 104 may be insertedinto an aperture and/or slot, while user input provided to the GTAWtraining system 100 indicates that the calibration device is insertedinto the aperture and/or slot. In some examples, the GTAW torch 400and/or filler rod attachment 500 may be used as the calibration device.In some examples, the welding platform 120 may additionally, oralternatively, include one or more emitters configured to emit a patternonto the support platform 120, the workpiece 110, the GTAW torch 400,and/or the operator 116. The emitters may emit the pattern in theinfrared, visible, and/or ultraviolet light spectrum for detection bythe one or more sensors 104 to calibrate the position and/or theorientation of the support platform 120 relative to the one or moresensors 104.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding stand 102 further includes an arm126 connected to and extending vertically from the support platform 120.A display monitor 128 having a display screen 129 is connected to thearm 126. In some examples, the display screen 129 may be configured fordisplaying weld training data and/or screens associated with weldingtraining (e.g., corresponding to the GTAW training system 100). In someexamples, a protective cover may be positioned over the display screento block certain environmental elements from contacting the displayscreen 129 (e.g., weld spatter, smoke, sparks, heat, etc.). In someexamples, the display monitor 128 may include additional outputmechanisms, such as audio speakers, for example.

In the example of FIG. 1 , a shelf 127 is also attached to the arm 126.The shelf 127 supports several input devices 130 of the welding stand102. As shown, the input devices 130 comprise a mouse and keyboard. Insome examples, additional input devices 130 may be provided, such as,for example, one or more microphones. In some examples, the displayscreen 129 may be a touch screen, and may be further considered an inputdevice 130. In some examples, the torch inputs 416 of the GTAW torch 400and/or the filler rod attachment 500 may also be used as input devices130.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the welding stand 102 further includes asensor assembly 122 attached to the arm 126. As shown, the sensorassembly 122 includes a plurality of sensors 104 a oriented towards theplatform 120, operator 116, filler rod 112, and/or GTAW torch 400. Insome examples, the sensor assembly 122 may be adjustable, such as viaone or more knobs and/or other adjustment mechanisms. In some examples,the sensor assembly 102 (and/or sensors 104 a) may be configured torecord sensor data relating to objects in the welding environment(and/or in a field of view of the sensors 104) during a weldingoperation.

In the example of FIG. 1 , the GTAW training system 100 also includesseveral other sensors 104 configured to record sensor data relating toobjects in the welding environment (and/or in a field of view of thesensors 104). As shown, in addition to sensors 104 a, the GTAW trainingsystem 100 includes sensors 104 b attached to the welding helmet 106,and sensors 104 c positioned around the welding environment. Thisarrangement of sensors 104 may enable some sensors 104 to monitor thewelding environment (e.g., track movement of an object) when othersensors 104 are obscured.

In some examples, the sensors 104 may comprise, for example, motionsensors, depth sensors, cameras (e.g., infrared cameras, visiblespectrum cameras, high dynamic range cameras, etc.), acoustic sensors,optical sensors, and/other appropriate sensors. In some examples, thesensor data captured by the sensors 104 may comprise one or more images,videos, sounds, temperatures, radio waves, heat waves, radiationmeasurements, and/or other appropriate data. In some examples, thissensor data may allow the welding stand 102 to track, detect, and/orrecord positions, orientations, and/or movement of objects (e.g.,operator 116, filler rod 112, filler rod attachment 500, GTAW torch 400,workpiece(s) 110, etc.) in the welding environment during a weldingoperation.

In the example of FIG. 1 , workpieces 110 include markers 113 configuredto be detected by the one or more sensors 104 and/or tracked by the GTAWtraining system 100. In some examples, the support platform 120 may alsoinclude one or more markers built into and/or attached to the supportplatform to calibrate a position and/or an orientation of the supportplatform 120 relative to one or more sensors without a separatecalibration device. In some examples, the markers 113 may be passivemarkers, such as, for example, reflective markers. In some examples, themarkers 113 may be active markers, such as, for example, light-emittingmarkers (e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs)). In some examples, themarkers 113, torch markers 413, and/or attachment markers 513 (and/orspheres 520/530) may assist the GTAW training system 100 (e.g., viasensors 104) in tracking the GTAW torch 400, filler rod 112, and/orworkpiece(s) 110, and/or determining position and/or orientation of theGTAW torch 400, filler rod 112, and/or workpiece(s) 110.

In some examples, the sensors 104 may be communicatively coupled to atraining controller 200 of the welding stand 102. For example, thesensors 104 may comprise communication circuitry to facilitate wiredand/or wireless communication with the training controller 200. In someexamples, the sensors 104 are configured to provide sensor data (e.g.,image data, acoustic data, sensed data, six degrees of freedom (6 DOF)data, etc.) to the training controller 200, such as via one or moresignals, for example. In some examples, the sensors 104 are furtherconfigured to receive data (e.g., configuration data, setup data,commands, register settings, etc.) from the training controller 200. Inthe example of FIG. 1 , the training controller 200 is disposed within acabinet 121 of the welding stand 102.

In the example of FIG. 2 , the training controller 200 is coupled toand/or in communication with the sensors 104, display monitor 128, inputdevices 130, and connection box 600. As shown, the connection box 600is, in turn, coupled to and/or in communication with the GTAW torch 400,remote control 140, and welding-type power supply 108. In some examples,the connection box 600 may additionally be coupled to and/or incommunication with the clamp 114.

In some examples, the training controller 200 may comprise analog and/ordiscrete circuitry, and/or one or more digital computing systems. In theexample of FIG. 2 , the training controller 200 includes memorycircuitry 206, processing circuitry 204, and input/output (I/O)circuitry 202. In some examples, the I/O circuitry 202 may comprisecommunication circuitry for communicating with other systems. In someexamples, the communication circuitry may include one or more wirelessadapters, wireless cards, cable adapters, wire adapters, dongles, radiofrequency (RF) devices, wireless communication devices, Bluetoothdevices, IEEE 802.11-compliant devices, WiFi devices, cellular devices,GPS devices, Ethernet ports, network ports, lightning cable ports, cableports, etc. In some examples, the communication circuitry may beconfigured to facilitate communication via one or more wired mediaand/or protocols (e.g., Ethernet cable(s), universal serial buscable(s), etc.) and/or wireless mediums and/or protocols (e.g., nearfield communication (NFC), ultra high frequency radio waves, IEEE802.11x, Zigbee, HART, LTE, Z-Wave, WirelessHD, WiGig, etc.). In someexamples, the I/O circuitry 202 may additionally comprise circuitry forinterfacing with the various devices coupled to and/or in communicationwith the training controller 200, such as, for example, the sensors 104,GTAW torch 400, remote control 140, display monitor 128, power supply108, and/or input devices 130.

In some examples, the processing circuitry 204 comprises one or moreprocessors used to execute machine readable instructions (and/orprocessor executable) stored in memory 206. In some examples, the memory206 stores machine readable instructions that drive some or all of thefunctions of the various devices coupled to and/or in communication withthe training controller 200. In the example of FIG. 2 , the memory 206also stores a weld training program 300.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example weld training program 300of the training controller 200. In some examples, the weld trainingprogram 300 may be implemented in machine readable (and/or processorexecutable) instructions stored in memory 206 of the training controller200 and/or executed by the processing circuitry 204. In the example ofFIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 begins at block 302. At block302, the weld training program 300 performs certain setup and/orcalibration operations. For example, the weld training program 300 mayuse sensor data from the sensors 104 to track one or more markers and/orcalibration tools and perform necessary calibrations for the weldingstand 102, GTAW torch 400, and/or filler rod attachment 500. As anotherexample, the weld training program 300 may set a mode of the GTAWtraining system 100 in response to receiving one or more signals fromthe input devices 130 indicative of a selection of a simulation or livearc mode. As another example, the weld training program 300 may setwelding operations, weld training activities, settings, and/orparameters in response to receiving one or more signals from the inputdevices 130 indicative of a selection of one or more welding operations,weld training activities, settings, and/or parameters. As anotherexample, the weld training program 300 may access user information(and/or corresponding privileges, permissions, authorized weldingoperations/activities, etc.) in response to receiving one or moresignals from the input devices 130 indicative of a user login and/oruser credentials.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 proceeds toblock 304 after block 302. At block 304, the weld training program 300determines whether a welding session should begin and/or has begun. Insome examples, a welding session may comprise one or more weldingoperations. In some examples, the welding session may be part of a weldtraining activity. In some examples, the determination at block 304 maycomprise determining whether there has been a selection to begin awelding session, weld training activity, and/or welding operation (e.g.,via the input devices 130, GTAW torch 400, remote control 140, and/oroperator interface 144). In some examples, the determination maycomprise determining whether block 302 has been satisfactorilycompleted. In some examples, the determination may comprise determiningwhether the GTAW torch 400 has been activated (e.g., via remote control140). If the weld training program 300 determines that the weldingsession should not begin or has not begun, then the weld trainingprogram 300 returns to block 302. If the weld training program 300determines that the welding session should begin or has begun, the weldtraining program 300 proceeds to block 306.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 tracks objects(e.g., the GTAW torch 400, filler rod 112 and/or filler rod attachment500, workpiece(s) 110, welding stand 102, operator 116, etc.) in thenearby welding environment at block 306. In some examples, the weldtraining program 300 may use sensor data received from the sensors 104(and/or sensing device 105) to perform the tracking. For example, thesensors 104 may capture sensor data relating to the welding environmentwithin their respective fields of view and communicate the sensor datato the training controller 200 via one or more data signals. The weldtraining program 300 may process the sensor data to detect, recognize,and/or track the objects. In some examples, the weld training program300 may use the markers 113, torch markers 413, and/or attachmentmarkers 513 (and/or spheres 520/530) to detect, recognize, and/or trackthe objects.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 proceeds toblock 307 after block 306. At block 307, the weld training program 300determines position and/or orientation of one or more objects (e.g.,relative to other objects) in the welding environment. In some examples,the weld training program 300 may determine the positions and/ororientations based on the detection, recognition, and/or tracking of theobjects via the sensor data. For example, the weld training program 300may determine one or more positions and/or orientations of the GTAWtorch 400, filler rod 112, workpiece(s) 110, and/or operator 116relative to the support platform 120 and/or other elements of the GTAWtraining system 100 based on data captured by the sensors 104.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 proceeds toblock 308 after block 307. At block 308, the weld training program 300determines one or more parameters of the GTAW training system 100. Insome examples, the one or more parameters may include one or more torchparameters (e.g., torch work angle, torch travel angle, torch travelspeed, torch aim, arc length, etc.), training parameters (e.g., contactto work distance, deposition amount, porosity, penetration, etc.),welding parameters (e.g., voltage, current, gas flow/disbursement, arclength, etc.), filler rod parameters (e.g., rod work angle, rod travelangle, dipping rate/frequency/duration, weave shape/amplitude/frequency,etc.), and/or other relevant parameters. In some examples, the weldtraining program 300 may determine the one or more parameters based onpositions and/or orientations determined at block 307, the detection,recognition, and/or tracking of the objects via data from sensors 104 atblock 306, data received from the detectors 150 of the welding-typepower supply 108, data received from one or more sensors of theconnection box 600 (discussed further below), set up and/or calibrationsperformed at block 302, and/or other pertinent information.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 proceeds toblock 310 after block 308. At block 310, the weld training program 300determines whether the welding session has or should be ended. In someexamples, this determination may comprise determining whether there hasbeen a selection to end the welding session and/or welding operation(e.g., via the input devices 130, remote control 140, and/or operatorinterface 144). In some examples, the determination may comprisedetermining whether the GTAW torch 400 has been deactivated (e.g., viaremote control 140). If the weld training program 300 determines thatthe welding session has not or should not be ended, then the weldtraining program 300 returns to block 306. If the weld training program300 determines that the welding session has or should be ended, the weldtraining program 300 proceeds to block 312.

In the example of FIG. 3 , the weld training program 300 determines oneor more training results at block 312. In some examples, the trainingresults may be determined based on the parameters at block 312 (and/orthe tracking data and/or position/orientation data of blocks 306 and307). In some examples, the training results 208 may comprise one ormore scores, grades, ratings, collections of parameters, summaries ofwelding sessions (and/or welding operation, training activity, etc.),user (and/or operator 116, participant, etc.) information, and/or otherweld training feedback pertaining to the welding session(s) (and/orwelding operation(s), training activities, etc.). In some examples, thetraining results may comprise two or more of the parameters synchronizedover time. In some examples, the scores, grades, and/or ratings may bebased at least in part on a comparison of the parameters with one ormore parameters from prior welding sessions (and/or weldingoperation(s), training activities, etc.). In some examples, the priorwelding sessions (and/or welding operation(s), training activities,etc.) and/or associated parameters may stored in memory 206. In someexamples, the training controller 200 may associate the training resultsand/or parameters with the identity of the operator 116, such as via aunique number associated with the operator 116, the name of the operator116, and/or other identification information of the operator 116.

At block 312, the weld training program 300 additionally outputs thetraining results 208. In some examples, outputting the training resultsmay comprise outputting to the display screen 129 and/or other outputmechanism of the GTAW training system 100. While shown as executingfollowing the end of the welding session at block 310, in some examplesblock 800 may execute prior to the end of the welding session. Forexample, the weld training program 300 may continuously determine and/oroutput the training results 208 in real time during the welding session,so as to enable live streaming. In the example of FIG. 3 , the weldtraining program 300 ends after block 312.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing more detailed components andconnections of the connection box 600 of FIG. 1 . In the example of FIG.6 , the connection box 600 includes input devices 602, output devices604, box sensors 606, control switch 608, and box control circuitry 610.As shown, input device 602 a is electrically connected to the trainingcontroller 200, while the input device 602 b and output device 604 d areelectrically connected to the welding-type power supply 108, and theinput device 602 c is fluidly connected to the welding-type power supply108 (e.g., for communication of shielding gas). As depicted on the otherside of the connection box 600 in FIG. 6 , the output device 604 a andoutput device 604 b are electrically connected to the GTAW torch 400,while the output device 604 c is fluidly connected to the GTAW torch400, and the input device 602 d is electrically connected to the remotecontrol 140. Within the connection box 600, both the input device 602 aand output device 604 a are electrically connected to the box controlcircuitry 610 in the example of FIG. 6 . Input device 602 d is alsodepicted as electrically connected to the box control circuitry 610. Asshown, input device 602 b and output device 604 b are electricallyconnected to each other via power line 612. Likewise, input device 602 cis shown as fluidly connected to output device 604 c via gas line 614.

In the example of FIG. 6 , input device 602 d is selectively connectedto output device 604 d through switch 608. In some examples, switch 608may comprise one or more switches, relays, transistors, and/or othercontrollable circuit elements. As shown, switch 608 is in electricalcommunication with box control circuitry 610. In some examples, switch608 may couple or decouple input device 602 d and output device 604 d inresponse to one or more signals received from the box control circuitry610. For example, the box control circuitry 610 may determine the GTAWtraining system 100 is in a live arc mode, and send one or more signalsto the switch 608 indicative of a command to close. In response, theswitch 608 may close, thereby coupling together input device 602 d andoutput device 604 d, thereby allowing signals from the remote control140 to be passed through from the input device 602 d to the outputdevice 604 d, and then to the welding-type power supply 108. As aresult, the welding-type power supply 108 may receive one or moresignals from the remote control 140 commanding welding-type power and/orgas be delivered to the GTAW torch 400 (e.g., via input device 602 b,output device 604 b, input device 602 c, and/or output device 604 c). Asanother example, the box control circuitry 610 may determine the GTAWtraining system 100 is in a simulation mode, and send one or moresignals to the switch 608 indicative of a command to open. In response,the switch 608 may open, thereby decoupling the input device 602 d andoutput device 604 d. As a result, signals from the remote control 140may not be communicated from the input device 602 d to the output device604 d, and/or to the welding-type power supply 108. As a result, thewelding-type power supply 108 may not receive any signals from theremote control 140 commanding welding-type power and/or gas be deliveredto the GTAW torch 400, and thus never send power or gas to the GTAWtorch 400 in response.

In some examples, the input devices 602 and/or output devices 604 maycomprise electrically conductive physical ports (e.g., male plugs orfemale sockets). For example, the input device 602 a may be a signalconnection port configured to electrically couple with a signal cableconnectable to the training controller 200 (and/or welding stand 102).Likewise, the output device 604 a may be a signal connection portconfigured to electrically couple with a signal cable connectable to theGTAW torch 400. As another example, the output device 604 d may be asignal connection port configured to electrically couple with a signalcable connectable to the welding-type power supply 108. Likewise, theinput device 602 d may be a signal connection port configured toelectrically couple with a signal cable connectable to the remotecontrol 140 (and/or a remote control receiver/transceiver).

In some examples, the input device 602 a and/or input device 602 d maycomprise input communication circuitry (e.g., one or more receivers,transceivers, and/or antennas) configured for wireless communication,rather than physical ports. In some examples, the output device 604 aand/or output device 604 d may comprise output communication circuitry(e.g., one or more transmitters, transceivers, and/or antennas)configured for wireless communication, rather than physical ports. Insuch examples, the communication circuitry may be configured towirelessly communicate with the training controller 200, welding-typepower supply 108, GTAW torch 400, and/or remote control 140 (and/orcorresponding complementary communication circuitry of the trainingcontroller 200, welding-type power supply 108, GTAW torch 400, and/orremote control 140).

In some examples, the input device 602 b may comprise an electricallyconductive physical power connection port (e.g., male plug or femalesocket) configured to electrically couple with a power cable connectableto the welding-type power supply 108. In some examples, the outputdevice 604 b may comprise an electrically conductive physical powerconnection port (e.g., male plug or female socket) configured toelectrically couple with a power cable connectable to the GTAW torch400. In some examples, the input device 602 b and/or output device 604 bmay be configured to handle higher voltages, currents, and/or power thanthe input device 602 a, input device 602 d, output device 604 a, and/oroutput device 604 d.

In some examples, the input device 602 c may comprise a physical gasconnection port (male or female) configured to couple with a gas cableconnectable with the gas supply 142 of the welding-type power supply108. In some examples, the output device 604 c may comprise a physicalgas connection port (male or female) configured to couple with a gascable connectable with the GTAW torch 400. In some examples, the inputdevice 602 c and/or output device 604 c may be omitted, and/or gas mayinstead be routed outside of the connection box 600. While depicted asseparate input devices 602 in the example of FIG. 6 , in some examples,the output device 604 d, input device 602 b, and/or input device 602 cmay be combined into a single device, and/or be configured to connect toa single cable (e.g., a U.S. or European Dinse or Tweco style cable).Likewise, in some examples, the output device 604 b and/or output device604 c may be combined into a single device, and/or be configured toconnect to a single cable (e.g., a U.S. or European Dinse or Tweco stylecable).

In the example of FIG. 6 , a power line 612 electrically couples theinput device 602 b to the output device 604 b. In some examples, thepower line 612 may be configured to handle high voltage and/or currentwelding-type power outputted by the welding-type power supply 108 foruse in arc welding by the GTAW torch 400. As shown, a gas line 614fluidly couples the input device 602 c and output device 604 c. In theexample of FIG. 6 , the connection box 600 includes a voltage sensor 606a and current sensor 606 b in electrical communication with the powerline 612, and a gas flow sensor 606 c in fluid communication with thegas line 614. In some examples, the gas flow sensor 606 c may beconfigured to sense, detect, and/or measure gas flow through the gasline 614. In some examples, the current sensor 606 b may be configuredto sense, detect, and/or measure electrical current through the powerline 612.

In some examples, the voltage sensor 606 a may be configured to sense,detect, and/or measure electrical voltage at the power line 612. In theexample of FIG. 6 , the voltage sensor 606 a is electrically connectedto both the power line 612 and an electrical ground 616. Thus, in someexamples, the voltage sensor 606 a may sense, detect, and/or measure anelectrical voltage differential between the power line 612 andelectrical ground 616. In some examples, a second (clamp) power line(e.g., for the clamp 114) may be routed through the connection box 600,and the voltage sensor 606 may instead sense, detect, and/or measure anelectrical voltage differential between the GTAW torch power line 612and the clamp power line.

In the example of FIG. 6 , the box sensors 606 are in electricalcommunication with the box control circuitry 610. In some examples, thebox control circuitry 610 may receive one or more signals from the boxsensors 606 indicative of their detections and/or measurements. In someexamples, the box control circuitry 610 may send one or more controlsignals to the box sensors 606 to control their operation. In someexamples, the box control circuitry 610 may communicate the detectionsand/or measurements of the box sensors 606 to the training controller200 via the input device 602 a.

In the example of FIG. 6 , the box control circuitry 610 is also inelectrical communication with the input device 602 a, output device 604a, and input device 602 d. In some examples, input device 602 a andoutput device 604 a may act as both input and output devices, in theymay act as a conduit for both output signals from the box controlcircuitry 610 (e.g., to the training controller 200 and/or GTAW torch400) and input signals to the box control circuitry 610 signals (e.g.,from the training controller 200 and/or GTAW torch 400). For example,the box control circuitry 610 may communicate control signals receivedfrom the remote control 140 via input device 602 d to the trainingcontroller 200 through input device 602 a (e.g., so that trainingcontroller 200 can detect activation signals, etc.). Because the boxcontrol circuitry 610 is in electrical communication with the inputdevice 602 d, the box control circuitry 610 may be able to receivecontrol signals from the remote control 140 regardless of whether theGTAW training system 100 is in a live arc mode or simulation mode(and/or the corresponding state of switch 608). Thus, input device 602 amay act as both an input and output device in that it may act as aconduit for both input signals from the training controller 200 andoutput signals to the training controller 200. As another example, thebox control circuitry 610 may communicate the mode state (e.g., live arcor simulation) to the GTAW torch 400 via the output device 604 a, sothat the GTAW torch 400 may provide a corresponding indication via thetorch outputs 418. Additionally, the GTAW torch 400 may send one or morecontrol signals to the box control circuitry 610, via the output device604 a, indicative of some operator selection (e.g., of live arc mode orsimulation mode) via the torch inputs 416. Thus, output device 604 a mayact as both an input and output device in that it may act as a conduitfor both input signals from the GTAW torch 400 and output signals toGTAW torch 400.

In the example of FIG. 6 , the box control circuitry 610 includes boxprocessing circuitry 620 and box memory circuitry 622. In some examples,the box processing circuitry 620 may include one or more processors. Insome examples, the box memory circuitry 622 may store machine readable(and/or processor executable) instructions. In some examples, the boxcontrol circuitry 610 (and/or box memory circuitry 622 and/or boxprocessing circuitry 624) may comprise discrete and/or analog circuitry.

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart illustrating an example box control method 700.As shown, the box control method 700 illustrates the operation of thebox control circuitry 610. In some examples, some or all of the boxcontrol method 700 may be implemented in machine readable instructionsstored in the box memory circuitry 622 and/or executed by the boxprocessing circuitry 620 of the connection box 600. In some examples,some or all of the box control method 700 may be implemented in analogand/or discrete circuitry.

In the example of FIG. 7 , the box control method 700 begins at block702, where the box control circuitry 610 receives input from the GTAWtorch 400 via output device 604 a. In some examples, the input may beone or more signals sent from the GTAW torch 400 in response to inputreceived via the torch inputs 416. For example, one or more of the torchinputs 416 may be used to command a particular mode (e.g., live arc modeor simulation mode). The box control circuitry 610 may process theinputs and/or forward to the training controller 200 via the inputdevice 602 a. After block 702, the method 700 proceeds to block 704,where the box control circuitry 610 determines the mode (e.g., live arcor simulation) of the GTAW training system 100. In some examples, thedetermination may be made based on one or more signals received from thetraining controller 200 via the input device 602 a. For example, thetraining controller 200 may change the mode based on inputs from theGTAW torch 400 and/or send one or more signals indicative of the mode tothe box control circuitry 610 via the input device 602 a. Alternatively,the training controller 200 may send one or more signals indicating themode has not changed, despite input from the GTAW torch 400 (e.g., wherethe GTAW training system 100 is no longer in the setup/calibration phaseor other appropriate phase).

In the example of FIG. 7 , the method 700 proceeds to block 706 afterblock 704. At block 706 the method 700 determines whether the mode is alive arc mode. If the GTAW training system 100 is in a live arc mode,the method proceeds to block 708, where the box control circuitry 610sends one or more control signals to close the switch 608. Closing theswitch 608 couples the input device 602 d to the output device 604 d,and enables the welding-type power supply 108 to receive signals fromthe remote control 140. If the GTAW training system 100 is not in a livearc mode, the method proceeds to block 710, where the box controlcircuitry 610 sends one or more control signals to open the switch 608,thereby decoupling the input device 602 d from the output device 604 d,and prohibiting the welding-type power supply 108 from receiving signalsfrom the remote control 140. While block 706 is depicted as determiningwhether the GTAW training system 100 is in a live arc mode, in someexamples, the block 706 may alternatively, or additionally, comprisedetermining whether the GTAW training system 100 is in a simulation modeor other mode. After blocks 708 and/or 710, the method proceeds to block711.

In the example of FIG. 7 , the method 700 processes and/or analyzes oneor more control signals received from the remote control 140 (e.g., viainput device 602 d), and/or sends the one or more control signals to thetraining controller 200 at block 711. As shown, the control signals aresent to the training controller 200 regardless of whether block 708 or710 executes. Thus, the weld training program 300 of the trainingcontroller 200 can use the remote control signal(s) regardless ofwhether the GTAW training system 100 is in live arc mode, simulationmode, or some other mode (and/or whether switch 608 is opened or closed.After block 711, the method 700 proceeds to block 712.

In the example of FIG. 7 , the method 700 processes and/or analyzes datareceived from the box sensors 606, and/or sends the box sensor data tothe training controller 200 at block 712. In some examples, the boxsensor data may be used by the training controller 200 to determine oneor more parameters (e.g., at block 308 of FIG. 3 ) and/or trainingresults (e.g., at block 312 of FIG. 3 ). As shown, the method 700proceeds to block 714 after block 712. At block 714, the method 700sends one or more control signals to the GTAW torch 400 via the outputdevice 604 a to control the torch markers 413, torch outputs 418, and/orfeedback mechanism 420. For example, the box control circuitry 610 maycontrol one or more torch markers 413 (and/or groups of torch markers413) to activate and/or deactivate to facilitate detection and/ortracking by the GTAW training system 100. In some examples, the boxcontrol circuitry 610 may use one or more signals received from thetraining controller 200 to determine how to control the torch markers413. For example, the training controller 200 may provide one or moresignals to the box control circuitry 610 indicative of data captured bythe sensors 104 and/or the tracking operation, and the box controlcircuitry 610 may control the torch markers 413 based on the one or moresignals. As another example, the box control circuitry 610 may activateand/or deactivate one or more of the torch outputs 418 to indicate themode of the GTAW training system 100 and/or whether the GTAW trainingsystem 100 is in a state where the mode can be changed. As yet anotherexample, the box control circuitry 610 may send one or more signals tothe feedback mechanism 420 indicative of a command toactivate/deactivate (and/or operate at some level), such as in responseto one or more parameters and/or training results communicated by thetraining controller 200. While the method 700 is depicted as endingafter block 714, in some examples, the method 700 may restart at block702 after ending.

The present disclosure describes a GTAW training system 100 that usestorch markers 413, a filler rod attachment 500 with attachment markers513, and a connection box 600 to facilitate training in the uniquecontext of a gas tungsten arc welding system. Given the dearth ofwelding expertise in the industry, and the uniqueness of GTAW welding,training systems like the disclosed GTAW training system 100 serve animportant function. Additionally, the ability of the GTAW trainingsystem to operate in both a live arc and simulation mode means thatindividuals can hone their skills in a simulated environment beforetackling real live welding, and receive valuable feedback for both.

The present method and/or system may be realized in hardware, software,or a combination of hardware and software. The present methods and/orsystems may be realized in a centralized fashion in at least onecomputing system, or in a distributed fashion where different elementsare spread across several interconnected computing or cloud systems. Anykind of computing system or other apparatus adapted for carrying out themethods described herein is suited. A typical combination of hardwareand software may be a general-purpose computing system with a program orother code that, when being loaded and executed, controls the computingsystem such that it carries out the methods described herein. Anothertypical implementation may comprise an application specific integratedcircuit or chip. Some implementations may comprise a non-transitorymachine-readable (e.g., computer readable) medium (e.g., FLASH drive,optical disk, magnetic storage disk, or the like) having stored thereonone or more lines of code executable by a machine, thereby causing themachine to perform processes as described herein.

While the present method and/or system has been described with referenceto certain implementations, it will be understood by those skilled inthe art that various changes may be made and equivalents may besubstituted without departing from the scope of the present methodand/or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the presentdisclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intendedthat the present method and/or system not be limited to the particularimplementations disclosed, but that the present method and/or systemwill include all implementations falling within the scope of theappended claims.

As used herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items in the listjoined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means any element of thethree-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/or y” means“one or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and/or z” means anyelement of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z),(x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y and/or z” means “one or more of x, yand z”.

As utilized herein, the terms “e.g.,” and “for example” set off lists ofone or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations.

As used herein, the terms “coupled,” “coupled to,” and “coupled with,”each mean a structural and/or electrical connection, whether attached,affixed, connected, joined, fastened, linked, and/or otherwise secured.As used herein, the term “attach” means to affix, couple, connect, join,fasten, link, and/or otherwise secure. As used herein, the term“connect” means to attach, affix, couple, join, fasten, link, and/orotherwise secure.

As used herein the terms “circuits” and “circuitry” refer to physicalelectronic components (i.e., hardware) and any software and/or firmware(“code”) which may configure the hardware, be executed by the hardware,and or otherwise be associated with the hardware. As used herein, forexample, a particular processor and memory may comprise a first“circuit” when executing a first one or more lines of code and maycomprise a second “circuit” when executing a second one or more lines ofcode. As utilized herein, circuitry is “operable” and/or “configured” toperform a function whenever the circuitry comprises the necessaryhardware and/or code (if any is necessary) to perform the function,regardless of whether performance of the function is disabled or enabled(e.g., by a user-configurable setting, factory trim, etc.).

As used herein, a control circuit (and/or control circuitry) may includedigital and/or analog circuitry, discrete and/or integrated circuitry,microprocessors, DSPs, etc., software, hardware and/or firmware, locatedon one or more boards, that form part or all of a controller, and/or areused to control a welding process, and/or a device such as a powersource or wire feeder.

As used herein, the term “processor” means processing devices,apparatus, programs, circuits, components, systems, and subsystems,whether implemented in hardware, tangibly embodied software, or both,and whether or not it is programmable. The term “processor” as usedherein includes, but is not limited to, one or more computing devices,hardwired circuits, signal-modifying devices and systems, devices andmachines for controlling systems, central processing units, programmabledevices and systems, field-programmable gate arrays,application-specific integrated circuits, systems on a chip, systemscomprising discrete elements and/or circuits, state machines, virtualmachines, data processors, processing facilities, and combinations ofany of the foregoing. The processor may be, for example, any type ofgeneral purpose microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signalprocessing (DSP) processor, an application-specific integrated circuit(ASIC), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a reduced instruction setcomputer (RISC) processor with an advanced RISC machine (ARM) core, etc.The processor may be coupled to, and/or integrated with a memory device.

As used, herein, the term “memory” and/or “memory device” means computerhardware or circuitry to store information for use by a processor and/orother digital device. The memory and/or memory device can be anysuitable type of computer memory or any other type of electronic storagemedium, such as, for example, read-only memory (ROM), random accessmemory (RAM), cache memory, compact disc read-only memory (CDROM),electro-optical memory, magneto-optical memory, programmable read-onlymemory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM),electrically-erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), acomputer-readable medium, or the like. Memory can include, for example,a non-transitory memory, a non-transitory processor readable medium, anon-transitory computer readable medium, non-volatile memory, dynamicRAM (DRAM), volatile memory, ferroelectric RAM (FRAM),first-in-first-out (FIFO) memory, last-in-first-out (LIFO) memory, stackmemory, non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), static RAM (SRAM), a cache, a buffer,a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, an optical memory, a flashmemory, a flash card, a compact flash card, memory cards, secure digitalmemory cards, a microcard, a minicard, an expansion card, a smart card,a memory stick, a multimedia card, a picture card, flash storage, asubscriber identity module (SIM) card, a hard drive (HDD), a solid statedrive (SSD), etc. The memory can be configured to store code,instructions, applications, software, firmware and/or data, and may beexternal, internal, or both with respect to the processor.

The term “power” is used throughout this specification for convenience,but also includes related measures such as energy, current, voltage, andenthalpy. For example, controlling “power” may involve controllingvoltage, current, energy, and/or enthalpy, and/or controlling based on“power” may involve controlling based on voltage, current, energy,and/or enthalpy.

As used herein, welding-type power refers to power suitable for welding,cladding, brazing, plasma cutting, induction heating, carbon arccutting, and/or hot wire welding/preheating (including laser welding andlaser cladding), carbon arc cutting or gouging, and/or resistivepreheating.

As used herein, a welding-type power supply and/or power source refersto any device capable of, when power is applied thereto, supplyingwelding, cladding, brazing, plasma cutting, induction heating, laser(including laser welding, laser hybrid, and laser cladding), carbon arccutting or gouging, and/or resistive preheating, including but notlimited to transformer-rectifiers, inverters, converters, resonant powersupplies, quasi-resonant power supplies, switch-mode power supplies,etc., as well as control circuitry and other ancillary circuitryassociated therewith.

What is claimed is:
 1. A connection box of a gas tungsten arc weld(GTAW) training system, comprising: a connection box housing; a powerinput port configured for connection to a welding-type power supply; apower output port configured for connection to a GTAW welding torch; apower line that constantly connects together the power input port andthe power output port, the power line being housed within the connectionbox housing; a remote control input device configured to receive aremote control signal from a remote control for the GTAW welding torch,the remote control input device being at least partly housed within theconnection box housing; a remote control output device configured toprovide the remote control signal received at the remote control inputdevice to a welding-type power supply when the remote control outputdevice is coupled to the remote control input device, the remote controloutput device being at least partly housed within the connection boxhousing; a switch configured to selectively couple the remote controlinput device to the remote control output device, the switch beinghoused within the connection box housing; and control circuitry inelectrical communication with the remote control input device, thecontrol circuitry being housed within the connection box housing, thecontrol circuitry configured to: receive the remote control signal fromthe remote control input device; provide a training signalrepresentative of the remote control signal to a weld trainingcontroller; in a live arc mode, control the switch to selectively couplethe remote control input device to the remote control output device toenable communication of the remote control signal to the welding-typepower supply; and in a simulation mode, control the switch toselectively decouple the remote control input device from the remotecontrol output device to prevent communication of the remote controlsignal to the welding-type power supply.
 2. The connection box of claim1, wherein the remote control input device comprises an input port orinput communication circuitry, and the remote control output devicecomprises an output port or output communication circuitry.
 3. Theconnection box of claim 1, wherein the remote control comprises a footpedal.
 4. The connection box of claim 1, further comprising: a gas inputport configured to receive a shielding gas from a gas supply, the gasinput port being at least partly housed within the connection boxhousing; a gas output port configured to provide the shielding gas tothe GTAW welding torch, the gas output port being at least partly housedwithin the connection box housing; and a gas line connecting the gasinput port to the gas output port, the gas line being housed within theconnection box housing.
 5. The connection box of claim 4, furthercomprising: a gas sensor configured to measure a gas flow of theshielding gas through the gas line, the gas sensor being housed withinthe connection box housing, the gas sensor being in electricalcommunication with the control circuitry, and the control circuitrybeing further configured to provide a signal representative of the gasflow to the weld training controller.
 6. The connection box of claim 1,further comprising a sensor in electrical communication with the controlcircuitry and power line, the sensor configured to detect a current orvoltage at the power line.
 7. The connection box of claim 5, wherein thecontrol circuitry is further configured to provide a signalrepresentative of the current or voltage to the weld trainingcontroller.
 8. The connection box of claim 1, further comprising a torchconnection device configured for electrical connection to the GTAWwelding torch, the control circuitry configured to provide one or moretorch output signals to the GTAW welding torch via the torch connectiondevice.
 9. The connection box of claim 8, wherein the control circuitryis further configured to receive one or more torch input signals fromthe GTAW welding torch via the torch connection device, the one or moretorch input signals being representative of a selection of the live arcmode or the simulation mode.
 10. The connection box of claim 1, whereinthe training signal comprises a training output signal, the connectionbox further comprising a training connection device configured forelectrical connection to the weld training controller, the controlcircuitry configured to provide the training output signal to the weldtraining controller via the training connection device, wherein thecontrol circuitry is further configured to receive one or more traininginput signals from the weld training controller via the trainingconnection device, the one or more training input signals beingrepresentative of the live arc mode or the simulation mode.
 11. A methodfor operating a connection box of a GTAW training system, the methodcomprising: receiving, at the connection box, a remote control signalfrom a remote control of a GTAW welding torch via a remote control inputdevice of the connection box, the GTAW welding torch being separate fromthe connection box, and the remote control input device being at leastpartly housed within a connection box housing of the connection box;providing, from the connection box, a training signal representative ofthe remote control signal to a weld training controller via a trainingconnection device of the connection box, the training connection devicebeing at least partly housed within the connection box housing;determining, using control circuitry of the connection box, a mode ofthe GTAW training system, the control circuitry being housed within theconnection box housing; and in a live arc mode, providing the remotecontrol signal to a welding-type power supply by controlling a switch ofthe connection box to selectively couple the remote control input deviceto a remote control output device of the connection box, the switchbeing housed within the connection box housing, and in a simulationmode, preventing the remote control signal from being provided to thewelding-type power supply by controlling the switch to selectivelydecouple the remote control input device from the remote control outputdevice of the connection box; and measuring, via a sensor of theconnection box housed within the connection box housing, a current orvoltage at a power line of the connection box, the power line beinghoused within the connection box housing, the power line constantlyconnecting together a power input port of the connection box and a poweroutput port of the connection box, the power input port being configuredfor electrical connection to the welding-type power supply, and thepower output port being configured for electrical connection to the GTAWwelding torch.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising receivinga mode signal from the weld training controller via the trainingconnection device, the mode signal being representative of the live arcmode or the simulation mode.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein theremote control output device is configured to couple to the welding-typepower supply.
 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising measuring,via a sensor of the connection box, a gas flow through a gas line of theconnection box, the gas line and the sensor being housed within theconnection box housing, the gas line connecting a gas input port of theconnection box with a gas outlet port of the connection box, the gasoutlet port being configured for connection to the GTAW torch.
 15. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the remote control comprises a foot pedal.16. The method of claim 11, further comprising receiving one or moretorch input signals from the GTAW welding torch via a torch connectiondevice of the connection box, and sending the one or more torch inputsignals to the weld training controller via the training connectiondevice, the one or more torch input signals being representative of aselection of the live arc mode or the simulation mode.
 17. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising controlling, via the torch connectiondevice of the connection box, one or more torch output indicators, orone or more torch markers, of the GTAW welding torch.
 18. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising sending one or more signals representativeof the gas flow to the training controller via the training connectiondevice.
 19. The method of claim 11, further comprising sending one ormore signals representative of the current to the training controllervia the training connection device.
 20. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising sending one or more signals representative of the voltage tothe training controller via the training connection device.